Chris Atlas

Join us on Unglossy for a two-part deep dive into the intersection of music, branding, and culture with industry legend Chris Atlas.

In Part 1, Chris takes us on a journey through the vibrant 90s music scene, sharing his personal experiences from aspiring artist to a key player at Tommy Boy Records. We explore the evolution of music labels, the impact of digital piracy, and the cyclical nature of hip-hop, where creative lulls give way to groundbreaking artistry. Chris also reflects on the resurgence of veteran artists and the importance of maintaining a unique and genuine voice in an ever-changing industry. This episode offers a masterclass in understanding the intricate relationship between music, culture, and branding.

In Part 2, we continue our conversation with Chris, delving into the marketing magic behind some of hip-hop’s most iconic campaigns, including Kanye West's "Through the Wire" and Boost Mobile's Rock Corps. Chris shares behind-the-scenes stories and insights from his time at Cornerstone and Def Jam, providing a glimpse into the alchemy of brand and culture in hip-hop. We also discuss the legacy and future of Fat Beats, exploring Chris’ vision for its growth in the digital age while honoring its vinyl roots. With tales of strategic pop-ups, industry relationships, and collaborations on critically acclaimed albums, this episode is brimming with industry insights and heartfelt stories you won’t want to miss.

"Unglossy: Decoding Brand in Culture," is produced and distributed by Merrick Creative and hosted by Merrick Chief Creative Officer, Tom Frank, hip hop artist and founder of Pendulum Ink, Mickey Factz, and music industry veteran, Jeffrey Sledge. Tune in to hear this thought-provoking discussion on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you catch your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @UnglossyPod to join the conversation and support the show at https://unglossypod.buzzsprout.com/